Fodor's Expert Review Backdoor Kitchen

This local favorite has become well-known beyond the San Juans, thanks to the stellar service and inventive, globally inspired cuisine and craft cocktails. As the name might indicate, it's a bit hard to find, tucked in an elegant courtyard a few blocks uphill from the water, but worth the search for dishes that include pan-seared scallops with ginger-sake beurre blanc, and pork chops topped with a poblano–goat cheese sauce and served with caramelized onions and smoked bacon. Local greens and produce are used often, and the Northwest-heavy wine list cements the Backdoor's status as a regional gem. Backdoor serves dinner only, except for its popular "noodle bowl Monday" lunches.